Time is up; They threaten again: Don't underestimate us

Instead, the Kremlin announced that "ultimatums are unacceptable" and assessed that it was "not a suitable way of communicating with Russia." The statement was made by spokesman Dmitry Peskov, without going into whether Russian leader Vladimir Putin would accept an invitation for direct negotiations with Ukrainian President Zelensky in Turkey this Thursday.

Today, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz responded to the Kremlin.

"If there is no progress, new sanctions will follow"

At a press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Merz said that the European Union is preparing tougher sanctions against Russia if there is no progress in the negotiations by the end of the week.

"We are considering additional measures, especially in the energy sector and financial markets," he said.

His statement comes as the US, the EU and others try to use a potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky in Istanbul as an opportunity for a ceasefire.

Merz strongly supported Ukraine and pointed out that Germany will not accept any concessions to the detriment of Kyiv.

"Additional pressure on Ukraine to make more concessions is simply no longer acceptable. This war must stop. That's why we're helping," Merz said.

He also said that, if necessary, Germany would continue military support for Ukraine for years to come.

Zelensky shows seriousness

The German Chancellor especially praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, despite the risky situation, offered to personally come to Turkey for negotiations.

"It shows seriousness and willingness to compromise. He is ready to do everything he can to take advantage of the opportunity for a ceasefire and peace negotiations," the German chancellor pointed out.

In the end, he said that the visit of four European leaders to Kyiv over the weekend, including himself, was not only symbolic.

"This visit should be seen as a clear sign of our determination. And it should not be underestimated," Merz said.